Meet Arabia Little | Actress & Part Time Comedian

We had the good fortune of connecting with Arabia Little and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Arabia, every day, we about how much execution matters, but we think ideas matter as well. How did you come up with the idea for your business?
I came up with the idea for my business, #31DaysofHalloween, thanks to a moment of inspiration sparked by Keke Palmer’s viral Vanity Fair Lie Detector Test Video. The video was circulating widely, and I found it hilarious. Everyone around me was quoting her famous line, “Sorry to this man,” and it got me thinking about how amusing it would be to recreate that moment with Keke Palmer herself.

The timing couldn’t have been better as it was October 1st, and my creative instincts went into overdrive. I envisioned turning this into a Halloween-themed project. The idea evolved further as I considered doing a different viral recreation every day throughout October.

With the support of my best friend and roommate, we scoured our apartment for clothes that could pass for Keke’s outfit. I meticulously cut pieces of paper to replicate the earrings she wore. We captured the moment, and that single post marked the birth of #31DaysofHalloween.

I vividly recall the moment before hitting the “post” button on Instagram, staring at the words “Day 1” in the caption, realizing that once I shared this, there would be no turning back. That pivotal decision was made on October 1, 2019, and for the past four years, I’ve dedicated myself to recreating viral videos, memes, movie/TV scenes, and celebrity moments every day in October.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I embarked on a unique journey that saw me transition from a pre-med track in college to sprinting towards a career in acting. While always possessing a creative inclination, the realization that acting could be a career came unexpectedly during high school when I joined the school play to support my best friend. That decision marked the beginning of my love affair with acting.

As I navigated through personal and professional growth, I couldn’t ignore the magnetic pull towards acting. The pivotal moment came when I secured a position as the acting instructor at the Keys 2 Life Performing Arts Summer Camp, hosted by Detroit’s non-profit organization, The Yunion. This role not only allowed me to nurture my passion for acting but also unveiled a deep-seated desire to contribute to the development and education of children.

My artistic mission extends beyond personal success; it involves learning, experiencing, and ultimately sharing those insights with the youth in my community. I aspire to create a space where they can cultivate their talents and navigate the creative arena with confidence. Currently in my phase of learning and experiencing, I recognize the significance of consistency.

The most profound lesson I’ve learned is encapsulated in the journey of #31DaysOfHalloween. Since its inception in 2019, it took until 2023 for my content to gain significant traction. The organic growth of my Instagram following, with a surge from 2,300 to 20,000 in a single month, reinforced the importance of perseverance and Steve Jobs’ wisdom: “If you really look closely, most overnight successes took a long time.” The four-year investment in #31DaysOfHalloween underscores the transformative power of consistent dedication.

Despite the challenges and moments of doubt, every fall, I revisit the decision to continue the project. Yet, with each released video, the joy and laughter it brings to others reaffirm the profound impact of art and comedy. This work goes beyond personal expression; it has become a source of joy for those who look forward to it, brightening their days. I persevere, confident that my skills will evolve, my resources will expand, and the number of lives I can positively impact will continue to grow. This journey is a testament to the transformative power of artistic dedication and the lasting impact it can have on both the creator and the audience.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Day 1: Breakfast Delight Start the day with breakfast at some of my favorite spots in Detroit, including Omega’s Coney Island on 8 Mile, the Dime Store, and Hudson Cafe. Savoring a hearty breakfast sets the tone for the exciting week ahead.

Day 2: Art and Scenery
Head to the Detroit Institute of Arts (DIA) and spend the day at the Kresge Cafe, combining work and pleasure amidst the stunning art collection. Take in the beauty of the museum and the surrounding area.

Day 3: Baseball and Gourmet Popcorn
Attend a Tigers game for an authentic Detroit sports experience. Order gourmet popcorn from Poppin Top Hat – I recommend the Cinnamon Bun flavor for her and the Southwest Hot Wing for me. Share a mini bag of Oreo popcorn for the perfect game-time treat.

Day 4: Biking Adventure
Explore the city on two wheels by biking down the Dequindre Cut. If we aren’t too tired we can also ride the Detroit Riverwalk.

Day 5: Belle Isle Picnic
Spend a leisurely day with friends on Belle Isle, indulging in a picnic.

Day 6: Nightlife Exploration
We can delve into Detroit’s nightlife scene. Begin the evening at The Skip, known for its vibrant atmosphere and creative cocktails. Venture around downtown, soaking in the energy of the city, and conclude the night at Deluxx Fluxx for an unforgettable experience.

Day 7: Enriching Arts Experience
Wrap up the week with a visit to Keys 2 Life Performing Arts Summer Camp, where I work. She will have the opportunity to witness the creativity and talent of young individuals involved in the performing arts.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I would like to extend a heartfelt shoutout and recognition to the incredible individuals who have played a pivotal role in the success of #31DaysOfHalloween. While numerous people have supported and collaborated with me, two individuals stand out as the godparents of this creative venture.

First and foremost, I want to acknowledge my best friend, Alexis Wilson. From the inception of the idea, Alexis has been there every step of the way, witnessing the birth of #31DaysOfHalloween. While I take on the role of talent, emulating celebrities and recreating viral moments, Alexis has been the backbone of the operation. She has served as the camerawoman, the mastermind behind hair and makeup, the meticulous editor, and my personal therapist during moments of self-doubt. There were times when I watched my videos so many times that I questioned their humor, and Alexis was there to provide unwavering support. Let’s not forget the countless times I raided her closet, transforming her wardrobe into ingenious costumes. #31DaysOfHalloween was a collaborative effort, and Alexis will forever be an integral part of its success.

The second godparent deserving of credit is Breanna Carter. A brilliant writer and filmmaker, Bre joined my team in 2022 and immediately became an indispensable force. She started by curating a list of videos for potential recreations, sharing her creative insights with me. This evolved into Bre taking on the role of content calendar creator for #31DaysOfHalloween, directing various videos, and becoming my trusted camerawoman. Her attention to detail and passion for every aspect of the project have elevated its quality. Breanna Carter’s contributions have showcased the power of teamwork, support, and encouragement.

To both Alexis and Bre, I am immensely grateful for their dedication, creativity, and unwavering commitment to #31DaysOfHalloween. They have not only been collaborators but true pillars of strength and inspiration in this exciting journey.

Website: arabialittle.com

Instagram: @arabialittle